"It's true that it's no more than three points, no more than another game. But after Chelsea's run, it is a team that is at the top, it was a good opportunity to show we improved and learned from last season," Pochettino told reporters.

"I was very pleased after the game because we showed that we are very competitive. In this type of game sometimes you don't need to play your best, but be competitive. It's what we missed last season, to challenge and win the Premier League.

"That for me is a big statement and a big step forward, that the team need to keep that mentality. If you are competitive you will always be close to winning the games."

"I don't want to compare. In the last few days appear a lot of comparisons with other players but I think he (Alli) is a very special player, completely different," Pochettino said.

"He's Dele Alli and it's difficult to compare. His potential is massive, big gap to improve but he's showing now unbelievable qualities and great performances. He's one of the best players in the Premier League but with potential to improve."

Pochettino will probably field a few fringe players in Sunday's FA Cup third-round clash against second tier Aston Villa.

"For us it's an important competition. It's a good opportunity for us to play players who have not played regularly," the Argentine added.